RV camping near Robert Lee, Texas centers around Lake E.V. Spence, a 14,950-acre reservoir managed by the Colorado River Municipal Water District. Situated in Coke County at approximately 1,900 feet elevation, this west Texas region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and mild winters. Camping options include established RV parks along the reservoir shoreline and limited dispersed sites for self-contained units.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake E.V. Spence attracts anglers seeking largemouth bass, white bass, catfish, and crappie. Spring Creek Marina & RV Park provides lake access where "RV camping paradise. Nice lake to swim, kayak, and fish in" according to camper Blas D.
Wildlife watching: Deer and wild turkey are common sightings throughout the area. Ron V. at Spring Creek Marina & RV Park mentioned, "My daughter loved feeding the deer. We look forward to returning soon!"
Water recreation: Swimming and kayaking are popular during summer months when water levels permit. Boat ramps at Wildcat Marina provide reservoir access for larger watercraft from late spring through fall depending on water conditions.
Abilene daytrip: Located about 75 miles northeast, Abilene State Park Campground offers additional outdoor activities. "There's a decent 3.5 mile hike/bike trail around the lake and back," notes camper Gretchen N.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful setting away from urban areas. Todd B. at MS G's RV Park, LLC noted, "We only had a one night stopover here on the way from Dallas to Lubbock but truly enjoyed it. The owner got us backed in and then returned with some peaches for us later on."
Night sky views: The rural location offers minimal light pollution for stargazing. Several campgrounds have open viewing areas without tall trees blocking the horizon.
Friendly local management: Family-owned campgrounds provide personalized service. One camper at Concho Pearl RV Estates shared, "The park owner accommodated us as we were running behind and arrived just after office hours. She was extremely sweet, and even left us a gift bag. Later she showed up to double check on us."
Local wildlife encounters: Deer sightings are common at several area parks. Milagros B. commented about Spring Creek Marina & RV Park, "Enyoy the beauty of the lake, sunsets amazing... Nice place for waking and biking."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F June through August, while winter nights can drop below freezing. During extreme weather events, services may be limited. A reviewer at Spring Creek Marina noted, "We were using this as a stop over/mid point in Texas and it happen to be during the crazy article blast that crippled the state."
Water level fluctuations: Lake E.V. Spence water levels vary significantly throughout the year. Call ahead to confirm boat ramp access if planning water activities.
Limited shopping options: Stock up on supplies before arrival as grocery stores are limited. Love's RV Stop-Sweetwater TX 475 provides convenience items, but as Angela C. notes, "Several of the places we called were completely booked - the one campground told me that industry was booming and workers were camping because housing wasn't available."
Cell service variability: Signal strength varies significantly by provider and exact location. Most parks near major highways maintain reasonable coverage, while sites directly on the reservoir may have limited connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: When lake levels permit, supervised swimming areas offer cooling relief during hot months. Some campgrounds have designated swim areas with gradual entry points suitable for children.
Playground availability: Several parks feature basic playground equipment. Amie M. at Abilene State Park Campground shared, "The playground isn't very good but you are 20 minutes from Abilene with oodles of great parks and a small zoo."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences for children. As noted by Ron V., "My daughter loved feeding the deer. We look forward to returning soon!"
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability vary widely between parks. Bar J Hitching Post RV offers "New bathrooms" with "Spacious sites nice showers clean park" according to Kerry L.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request sites away from highways when possible to minimize noise. Dennis P. at MS G's RV Park noted, "The park was not too far off the highway, so traffic noise was prevalent, but after dark it wasn't bad."
Level pads: Many parks feature gravel sites requiring minimal leveling. Richard & G. observed at MS G's RV Park, "The site was level and the hookups were in very good condition."
Big rig access: Several parks accommodate larger RVs but may have limited availability for pull-through sites. Call ahead to confirm access routes and site dimensions for units over 35 feet.
Extended stay options: Monthly rates are available at select parks for longer-term visitors. Cory D. at Rolling Plains RV Park mentioned, "Economy Spots, cramped but conveniently located off highway with weekly and monthly all inclusive rates."
